Visit St. Maarten/St. Martin Dining and Activities Guide 2022

DINING & ACTIVITIES GUIDE Featuring the island’s best restaurants and attractions

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St. Maarten/St. Martin 2022

To provide you with a safe experience, this magazine has been treated with Biomaster Antimicrobial Technology.

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CONTENTS DINING Caribbean Gems.........................Inside front cover Ocean Lounge................................................... pg. 5 Coffee Lounge............................................pg. 7, 20 Emilio’s............................................................... pg. 8 Dutch Blonde Escapes..................................... pg. 9 Zee Best........................................................... pg. 10 Balls & Wine.................................................... pg. 11 Sale & Pepe..................................................... pg. 13 Karakter Beach Bar & Restaurant......... pg. 14-15 Jai’s Contemporary Fusion Cuisine............. pg. 16

Topper’s Restaurant & Bar

Domino’s.......................................................... pg. 16 Topper’s Restaurant & Bar........................... pg. 17 Beirut............................................................... pg. 18 SkipJack’s......................................................... pg. 18 Lee’s Roadside Grill & Bar............................. pg. 18 The Hideaway Restaurant............................ pg. 19 Navy Beach St. Maarten............................... pg. 19 The Boon......................................................... pg. 21 Mandarin......................................................... pg. 22 Mélange........................................................... pg. 23 Rendezvous Lounge...................................... pg. 24 3 Amigos.......................................................... pg. 24 SALT Restaurant + Bar ................................. pg. 25 JAX Steakhouse.............................................. pg. 25 Carrefour Market........................................... pg. 27 Infinity Restaurant......................................... pg. 28

From top: J. Kevin Foltz, RTGH Photography

Veranda Market and Bistro.......................... pg. 29 Rainforest Adventures.................................... pg. 39

NIGHTLIFE

GET THE APP

Mullet Bay Golf Course................................... pg. 40

The Red Piano................................................. pg. 32

Solid ATV Scooter Rental................................ pg. 40

Not sure where to start?

Casino Royale................................................. pg. 33

The Daily Herald................................................ pg. 41 Xisle Boat Charters.......................................... pg. 45

AC T I V I T I E S

Aqua Mania Adventures................................. pg. 47

Seaside Nature Park...................................... pg. 35

Random Wind................................................... pg. 47

Tri-Sport........................................................... pg. 36

St. Maarten Heineken Regatta...................... pg. 48

Rusty Parrot.................................................... pg. 37

Pyratz Gourmet Sailing................................... pg. 49

Topper’s Rhum Distillery.............................. pg. 37

The Captain’s Duty Free Shop.................. Back cover

Cover Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

Download the indispensable Visit St. Maarten/St. Martin app! Scan the QR code below to learn more about SXM shopping, dining and attractions, and get useful maps to help you find your way around.

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FOOD, SPIRITS AND NIGHTLIFE DELICIOUS DELIGHTS

Topper’s Restaurant & Bar

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J. Kevin Foltz

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TASTY TEMPTATIONS With so many types of cuisine to choose from, dining is an unforgettable experience in St. Maarten/ St. Martin.

BY

/ ALITA SINGH

WWW.VISITSTMAARTEN.COM

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FOOD, SPIRITS AND NIGHTLIFE DELICIOUS DELIGHTS

/ ALITA SINGH

A Taste of History BY

Holland House

ING OUT IN DIN

PHILIPSBURG In bustling Philipsburg, the Dutch side’s capital, you’ll find a wide selection of restaurants catering to myriad tastes.

The Boardwalk, in particular, is dotted with bars and eateries offering local fare such as johnnycakes, exotic chicken satays and French escargots.

The Ocean Lounge at Holland House Beach Hotel on the Boardwalk is a gem of beachfront dining. The menu spotlights flavors from Europe and the Caribbean. Diners can start with a sumptuous breakfast, stop in again for lunch and celebrate another day well spent with dinner. The wine is also superb.

Emilio’s restaurant has become synonymous with celebrating milestones. The restaurant takes its moniker, “Dine with History,” seriously, as you’ll see from its location in a historic boiler house at Rockland Estate and its menu, which features classic local dishes created from island ingredients.

At The Rusty Parrot at Dock Maarten, sit on the deck of a pirate ship and gaze over Great Bay as you sip a cocktail and nibble on tapas. This newest addition to the dining scene is also a great place for evening drinks.

VISIT ST. MAARTEN / ST. MARTIN DINING & ACTIVITIES GUIDE 2022

Emilio’s restaurant, which opened in 2017, is housed in a 17th-century boiler house on Rockland Estate that’s named after Emilio Wilson, who once owned the former plantation. Norman and Su Wathey, who also own Taloula Mango’s Caribbean Cafe in Philipsburg, restored the structure and converted it into a restaurant. “We wanted to create more than a restaurant,” says Norman. “The history that is here needed to be honored and preserved.”

When you dine at Emilio’s, you’re getting a taste of history along with gourmet fare. Menu items include the Emilio Wilson Plate, a combo of coal pot–fried snapper, johnnycake, rice and beans, and coleslaw. There’s also the Big Mamie, a burger created in honor of Wilson’s grandmother, who toiled as a slave on the plantation her grandson later bought.

Along with Executive Chef Sydney Prescod, the Watheys have been instrumental in attracting guest chefs with ancestral links to the island for exclusive one-night-only dinners. “These nights have brought so many of us together,” says Norman. “We realized that passion for food, good food, has always been a part of us.”

The Watheys consider Emilio’s their “magnum opus.” They’re always adding to the artifacts found throughout the dining space, and they have restored the original root cellar and transformed it into a wine cellar and private dining room. Award-winning bartender Daza Baez oversees the restaurant’s extensive wine and spirits collection.

“We are a family here,” Norman says. “Our St. Maarten roots are strong and getting stronger. When you come to visit us, we want you to walk away feeling, and not just knowing, our history. That is why our tagline is ‘Emilio’s … Dine with History.’”

This fine-dining establishment has become a must-visit culinary spot for locals and visitors alike. In fact, Emilio’s won the SHTA Crystal Pineapple Award for Restaurant of the Year 2019.

J. Kevin Foltz

Celebrate the island’s heritage while enjoying a gourmet meal.

O C E A N - F R O N T

C A S U A L

F I N E - D I N I N G

3 Course Menu: $39 Free Parking

The Ocean Lounge at Holland House Beach Hotel • Front Street 45, Philipsburg • www.hhbh.com • reservations@hollandhousehotel.com • (1-721) 542-2572

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Emilio’s

AMAsterdam on Front Street and Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store at Dock Maarten (and in Simpson Bay) are great places to discover the Dutch side’s culinary links to The Netherlands. AMAsterdam is reminiscent of a bar tucked away in an Amsterdam alley, and Amsterdam Cheese is dedicated to its namesake, as well as fine spirits.

Another venue that celebrates Dutch and island cultures is the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar on the Boardwalk. The eatery, in the island’s only “windmill,” is the spot to enjoy island-crafted beers such as the restaurant’s namesake and savor Dutch pancakes, poffertjes and other delights.

After trekking around town, cool off at the Coffee Lounge on the Boardwalk or at their Front Street location. Sandwiches, salads and pastries are perfect accompaniments for frappes, flavored coffees and teas. When in Cole Bay, also stop in at Coffee Lounge 2.0 in Three Palm Plaza. The menu mirrors the one in town with some other yummy selections.

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Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store

There are many other options to discover when visiting the culinary capital of the Caribbean. For fresh pizza, place an order from Domino’s on Bush Road (or their location in Simpson Bay). If you have Iron Chef ambitions of your own, stop by any Carrefour Market on the Dutch side. Here you’ll find ingredients to create all sorts of mouthwatering dishes.

From top: courtesy of Emilio’s, J. Kevin Foltz

IN BUSTLING PHILIPSBURG, THE DUTCH SIDE’S CAPITAL, YOU’LL FIND A WIDE SELECTION OF RESTAURANTS CATERING TO MYRIAD TASTES.

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79 Boardwalk, Philipsburg • Tel: +17215433314

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Zee Best

ING OUT IN DIN

S I M P SO N B A Y The twin districts are home to the highest concentration of restaurants, bars and entertainment venues on the island.

Choices abound here, and the toughest decision will be to select what kind of cuisine you’re going to try next.

SkipJack’s Seafood Grill, Bar & Fish Market on the lagoon in Simpson Bay offers waterfront views and palate pleasers like Maine and Caribbean lobsters. The seafood is so fresh that the restaurant has its own fish market.

Topper’s Restaurant & Bar celebrates all-American comfort cuisine alongside international culinary delights. Daily specials focus on fresh seafood and the best-quality meats cooked to perfection. Pair your selections with Topper’s signature rums, distilled right here on island.

Balls & Wine in Paradise Plaza has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best wine and tapas bars around. It’s a spot to enjoy a glass of fine wine and indulge in some delicious tapas with family and friends.

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J. Kevin Foltz

& COLE BAY

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J. Kevin Foltz

Impeccable Wine Bar and Tapas Restaurant

People know this as the place with more balls in St. Maarten/St. Martin — and yes, it’s called Balls & Wine, a diminutive form of The Meatballs & Wine Shop. It’s a unique, intimate place located in the Paradise Mall near the Caribbean Cinemas in Cole Bay, where you can enjoy pleasant, new and unique flavors.

Balls & Wine has a bit of everything, including the best gourmet tapas on the island, like Tuna Pizzeta, Asian Biscotti, Truffled Potatoes and Carpaccio Deluxe, as well as the best selection of wines from countries like France, the United States, Argentina, Chile and Spain.

You’ll also find a high-end selection of Venezuelan rums like Diplomatico Reserva Especial, with orange slices and cocoa powder, Santa Teresa and more. And their list of artisan cocktails includes Citrus Reticulata, Blackberry Caipiroska, La Vie en Rose and the best mojitos on the island.

The menu at Balls & Wine is innovative and fresh with the best products and ingredients, so customers do not hesitate to return. You’ll also find an impeccable wine bar and tapas restaurant for gourmet dishes guaranteed to heighten your senses. Sit back, relax and sip refreshing cocktails and fine wines. It’s a lovely, intimate place to mingle and catch up with friends.

If you have allergies or dietary needs, Balls & Wine will gladly accommodate.

Check out their dishes on Instagram or Facebook at @BallsandWine.

Balls & Wine

ED NAKLLS BA EF

SAUCES

HOMEMAD E RED ITALIA N TOMAT O SPICY MEAT PARMES AN CREA M PESTO

BE SSIC CLA PORK S GIE VEG IS H F N CKE CHI

WINE BAR & TAPAS RESTAURANT WE ARE SPECIALISTS TO OFFER YOU THE BEST MEATBALLS AND MANY OTHER SIGNATURE DISHES ON THE ISLAND!

WINE BAR AND CRAFTED C O C KTA I L S PARADISE MALL, WELFARE ROAD, COLE BAY Tel: 1 721-527-6146, 1 721-527-6145 Email: balls.wine.sxm@gmail.com TheMeatballandWineShop

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Italian with an Island Flair BY

/ ALITA SINGH

Chef Davide Zagami brings a taste of Sicily to St. Maarten/ St. Martin.

Chef Davide Zagami of Sale & Pepe Italian Sicilian Cucina restaurant always has a sparkle in his eyes.

His enthusiasm and love of cooking are reflected in the sparkling dishes he creates from traditional and unconventional ingredients. In the two decades Chef Davide has called this island home, he has made his name synonymous with exceptional Italian cuisine.

Chef Davide was born in Catania, an ancient port city at the foot of Mount Etna on Sicily’s east coast.

This makes him very much an “island boy,” who has a deep connection with the sea and the cuisine spawned from it.

VISIT ST. MAARTEN / ST. MARTIN DINING & ACTIVITIES GUIDE 2022

He captures the essence of the sea in his dishes by opting only for the freshest, topquality ingredients. Many of his dishes feature local ingredients, notably fresh seafood. His menu is a combination of Italian cuisine and Caribbean influence.

The success of Sale & Pepe is a labor of love Chef Davide shares with his soulmate, Scarlet.

The two met in St. Maarten in 2009, and their first offspring was their restaurant in Simpson Bay. The chef wanted his diners to connect with the land and water, which he prized back home in the Old Country. Sale & Pepe has achieved that dream for Chef Davide. This standout waterfront restaurant offers outdoor seating and boasts lagoon views. If you prefer to dine indoors, there is also a well-appointed, airconditioned dining room.

When you dine with Chef Davide and Scarlet, you are part of the family. They combine the chef’s talent and experience in the kitchen with Scarlet’s managerial experience and frontof-house presence. The menu highlights a wholesome sense of family with much care and attention given to healthy dishes and options.

There are pastas, of course. You’ll find Linguine alle Vongole (clams) and Rigatoni alla Siciliana (with Italian sausage). Also delectable are the risottos: one with porcini mushrooms, another is a vegetarian option featuring asparagus. Gluten-free pastas are available with yummy sauces, and there are non-pasta main courses as well.

Sale & Pepe is not just labeled a family restaurant. It is the epitome of that description.

Here is a family adding care and love as the base ingredient in every dish. This is Chef Davide’s idea of wholesome, and he is happy to share that with everyone.

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

Sale & Pepe

PRIVATE CHEF SERVICES TO VILLAS AND YACHTS AVAILABLE

Owner and Chef Davide of ‘Sale e Pepe’ was born in Catania, Sicily, Italy. Growing up in a family of restaurateurs, it was evident for Davide that he would continue the family tradition and one day have his own restaurant. Davide studied culinary arts in Italy and worked in many sea food specialty restaurants before he traveled to the Caribbean where he gained experience in adding a Caribbean touch to his dishes.

Seventeen years ago, Davide settled on the beautiful island of St. Maarten where he met his wife, Scarlet. Sale & Pepe opened in December 2016 and rapidly grew into much more than just another Italian restaurant. In 2019 the restaurant relocated to its beautiful marina location in Simpson Bay where Davide and Scarlet will welcome you into their dining oasis. If you are looking for the best authentic Sicilian Italian food then Sale & Pepe is the place! Using fresh fish and a variety of other seafood, Davide is happy to work and mix directly imported Sicilian products with fresh Caribbean ingredients. Described by established customers as a convivial rallying place, you will most definitely feel like eating Grandma’s recipes in a modern and romantic atmosphere. Dining on the water at Sale & Pepe is a MUST experience with a magnificent 190º view, friendly staff and superb food. You will not be disappointed! You can enjoy your meal with exclusive Sicilian wine from the Etna mountain in Catania. Open for Lunch and Dinner.

ITALIAN SICILIAN RESTAURANT

NT

A UR A T ES

SPECIALTY’S SEA FOOD

Airport Road, Simpson Bay +1 721 527-5019 (also Whatsapp) reservations@salepepesxm.com

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Karakter Beach Bar/Restaurant is located on the mile long Simpson Bay Beach with the runway passing just behind and the airport only a 5 minutes car drive away. It makes Karakter the perfect first stop after landing and last stop before taking off.

Simpson Bay beach is often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches of St. Maarten.

Yahoo recently selected Karakter Beach Bar/Restaurant among the top 20 beach bars in the Caribbean. Complemantary comfortable beach loungers are offered to the guests. The kitchen is open from 9 am till 10 pm (high season) and till 9 pm (low season) for breakfast, lunch and dinner. From thursdays till Mondays Karakter offers live entertainment.

The menu offers a variety of salads, sandwiches, meat and fish dishes for lunch and meat, fish and vegetarian dishes for dinner. Just a selection: tuna salad, coconut shrimp salad, Mediterranean sandwich, Dutch sandwich, chicken sate, trio tartar, beef or tuna carpaccio, crab cakes, red snapper filet, grilled tuna, pork tenderloin, rib eye or rack of lamb. The wine - and cocktail list are extensive.

S I M P S O N B AY R OA D S T. M A A R T E N

# 1 2 1,

I N F O @ K A R A K T E R B E AC H . CO M + 1

7 2 1

5 2 3

9 9

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/ K A R A K T E R S X M

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KARAKTER BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT

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Karakter Beach Bar & Restaurant

If you’re seeking authentic Lebanese cuisine, take a trip to Beirut without leaving the island. Beirut restaurant prides itself on offering popular Lebanese dishes. Fancy a pull on a hookah? That’s available there, too.

Jai’s Contemporary Fusion Cuisine in Plaza del Lago is a modern Indian-Fusion restaurant. The chef has crafted his menu to bring both Caribbean and Indian flavors to his diners’ palates. Dishes are assembled from the freshest, most flavorful ingredients.

VISIT ST. MAARTEN / ST. MARTIN DINING & ACTIVITIES GUIDE 2022

J. Kevin Foltz

Continued from page 10

J. Kevin Foltz

/ 17 Karakter Beach Bar & Restaurant at beautiful, mile-long Simpson Bay Beach offers an extensive menu, comfortable lounge chairs and a cozy ambience at night.

Live music is often in the cards, too.

The Hideaway Restaurant at La Vista Resort in Pelican is an intimate spot perched beside an infinity pool that cascades toward a spectacular view. This cozy nook is the place for breakfasts; long, lazy lunches; and romantic, candlelit dinners.

When seeking local food, Lee’s Roadside Grill & Bar is a must. Across from the Atrium Hotel, the restaurant serves mouthwatering lobster, fresh fish, ribs, chicken and burgers.

The day’s catch goes from the sea to your plate, just the way you like it.

Navy Beach St. Maarten, in the exclusive Yacht Club Isle de Sol mega-yacht marina, is one of the island’s newest additions. This sprawling, nautically inspired venue offers casual coastal cuisine and creative cocktails.

You’ll also enjoy a large bar, gaming and dining areas, a swimming pool with daybeds, a roof deck and spectacular views.

Sale & Pepe Italian Sicilian Cucina restaurant showcases Caribbean seafood and

Topper’s Restaurant & Bar

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Amazing food Great service Large selection of Hookah flavors

Open 11 am - 1 am

Facebook.com/beirut.sxm +1 721-545-3612 29 Airport Road, Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten

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J. Kevin Foltz

/ 19 Sicilian flair. Chef Davide brings together his love for his two island homes to create dishes sure to please the palate.

The Boon, at historic Mary’s Boon Beach Resort and Spa, is a great place for fresh fruit cocktails and a Caribbean-inspired menu featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies. Dine with toes in the sand or opt for indoor seating as you enjoy enticing views of sand and sea.

Whether you are seeking a coffee and a fresh-from-the-oven pastry or eggs prepared to perfection, your breakfast appetite will be well tended at Zee Best in Simpson Bay. Go early and maybe stay for a leisurely lunch.

If you’re craving tasty dishes and innovative options for breakfast or lunch, look no further than Coffee Lounge. This relaxed and cozy eatery features an amazing selection of coffee, frappés and pastries. In addition to their location at Horizon View Hotel on Front Street, you’ll find Coffee Lounge SXM across from Guavaberry and Coffee Lounge 2.0 in Cole Bay. Pizza is a universal favorite. Island pies often come piping hot from Domino’s Pizza. You can bet that someone on island is calling for a delivery. Why not pick up the phone and enjoy some tasty comfort food yourself?

SkipJack’s

ST MAARTEN RESTAURANT ■ POOL ■ SKY LOUNGE

YACHT CLUB ISLE DE SOL, SIMPSON BAY navbeach.com/st-maarten ahoysxm@navybeach.com NavyBeachStMaarten @navybeach.stmaarten

info@lavistaresort.com www.lavistaresort.com

+1-721-544-3005

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EVERYBODY COMES TO THE BOON! It’s a rite of passage and no one visits the Caribbean island of St. Maarten without making a stop. What’s old is new again, and nothing proves that more than The Boon Beach Bar & Restaurant in Simpson Bay. The Boon was built as part of Mary’s Boon Hotel, a quaint 36-room hotel that has been a fixture of Simpson Bay since the 1970’s. The bar and restaurant boast oceanfront views and inside dining as well as beach seating. Umbrellas and chaise lounges are free of charge!...

Whether you are there for a beach lunch, an elegant dinner or an afternoon of sunbathing, water sports, or cocktails and music, “The Boon” will not disappoint. And for early birds, breakfast is served starting at 7:00 a.m. Ask any of the bartenders for a

refreshing twist to the usual cocktails and their signature Bloody Mary is hand 7 A.M. - 10 P.M. mixed and topped with bacon. The lunch menu features the usual burgers, but the chefs also create a tuna tartare with wasabi ice cream on the side! Where the dinner menu is more seafood and steaks.

“Sunday Funday” is the highlight of the week, drawing locals and visitors. The beachfront bar is open and a deejay provides afternoon and evening music on the sand.

Be sure to allow a day (or two!) to add The Boon to your list of fun memories of St. Maarten!

OPEN

117 Simpson Bay Road Simpson Bay

Tel: (721) 545-7000 The Boon Beach Bar & Restaurant WWW.VISITSTMAARTEN.COM

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Port de Plaisance is a multifaceted place worth exploring for its dining and entertainment options. Here you’ll discover great food and plenty of entertainment venues, including Princess Port de Plaisance Resort and Casino. Table games and slot machines will keep you busy at Princess Casino.

Port de Plaisance is Mandarin also home to one of the island’s top mega-yacht marinas, Yacht Club Port de Plaisance. This is a popular rendezvous for the professionally crewed yachts that migrate to St. Maarten as their strategic winter base within the Lesser Antilles.

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This locale is also home to The Country Club at Port de Plaisance, which includes a spa, gym, hair salon, tennis courts and a pool.

Mélange International Grille should be on every food connoisseur’s dining list. This contemporary tabletop-grill restaurant has a menu inspired by international flavors.

Great for a date or for entertaining a group, the Grille has the right ingredients for good conversation as diners cook together and add the finishing touches to their meals right

Courtesy of Mandarin

PORT DE PLAISANCE

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Mélange

at the table. It’s similar to the Korean barbecue concept.

Mandarin Pan Asian restaurant also offers an adventure in eating. Here, a fusion of flavors entices diners to try a variety of taste-tempting menu items.

You’ll find not just one or two types of cuisine but several.

Choose from the flavors of China (including dim sum), Thailand and Japan (sushi and ramen bowls).

Restaurants such as these two in Port de Plaisance are the reason St. Maarten/St. Martin has maintained its claim as the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.” The chefs and staff at these establishments are committed to delivering the best service and quality to ensure diners have an unforgettable experience.

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MAHO & CUPECOY

French & Italian Cuisine

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner served daily Terrace-style dining located in Porto Cupecoy Open 7 days a week • For reservations, call 1.721.545.3070

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This area is often referred to as the “gold coast” because of its desirable residences and amenities. Dining here is also a treat, as you’ll find a variety of cuisines to enjoy.

SALT Restaurant + Bar in The Morgan Resort & Spa offers elegant dining and an upscale ambience. Choose indoor or poolside seating for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It’s also a top spot for handcrafted cocktails.

Home of the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Sonesta Ocean Point, this area features great dining and entertainment options.

At 3 Amigos, the food is Tex-Mex, and the atmosphere is causal and fun. JAX Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar calls for a little dressing up and features an extensive menu. Also in the neighborhood is Sublime Resto.Bar. The cuisine measures up to the stylish décor.

Your palate will thank you for taking time to dine here.

In Porto Cupecoy, meet up at Rendez-Vous Lounge, a restaurant tucked in a corner of a Mediterranean-inspired “village” with views of Simpson Bay Lagoon and the elegant yachts in the marina.

Come for breakfast, stay for lunch and, if you want, dinner as well.

It’s here to be enjoyed!

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THE MORGAN RESORT

TEL. 1-721-545-4000 EXT. 6006

RESERVATIONS: SALT@THEMORGANRESORT.COM

LOCATED AT THE MORGAN RESORT

BEACON HILL RD. NO 2, SIMPSON BAY

@THEMORGANRESORT WWW.THEMORGANRESORT.COM

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CA R R E F O U R MARKET Low Prices Plus More

One of the best places to spot top chefs on the island is among the aisles at Carrefour Market, the largest supermarket chain in St. Maarten.

Carrefour Market is synonymous with comfort and offers its customers an ultimate shopping experience. They stock a huge range of fresh, thoughtfully sourced groceries from around the world.

The produce is fresh and replenished throughout the week and includes organic fruits and vegetables. The dairy section is arguably the best on the island. They carry a huge range of wines, spirits, aperitifs and mixers to choose from and have the finest snacks.

You can also purchase duty-free liquors in singles or bulk.

Carrefour Market has two major outlets with 40,000 square feet each — one located on Bush Road and the other in Cole Bay. With Carrefour Express, the chain has expanded further with two more locations in Porto Cupecoy and Jordan Village, reaching customers in those areas.

Whether you are on the Dutch side or just across the border on the French side, you are never far from a huge assortment of quality products, ample parking, a hygienic and shopper-friendly ambience and prompt assistance in every aisle.

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4 LOCATIONS 79 Bush Road, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-4400 53 Union Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-544-3118 Porto Cupecoy, Rhine Road Tel: +1 721-545-3162 Jordan Village, Cupecoy Tel: +1 721-546-4888 cmsxm.net email@cmsxm.net

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Infinity Restaurant at Oyster Bay Beach Resort

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Oyster Pond is one point where the two sides of the island meet. While that in itself is an outstanding point, this area has a lot of culinary offerings all around the bay. Spectacular ocean views and the distant twinkle of lights from St. Barths add an unforgettable quality to the dining experience at many of the spots.

A prime venue for dining just before the border on the Dutch side is Oyster Bay Beach Resort. It is more than a place to enjoy a luxurious suite, lounge by the pool or bask in the sun.

It is also home to some delicious cuisine. Infinity Restaurant and Veranda Market and Bistro are both located at Oyster Bay Beach Resort.

Infinity combines Italian and international flavors across mouthwatering dishes that are truly worthy of your palate and your social media post. Book a table for a romantic night for two or make it a family night and bond with loved ones while enjoying a great meal.

The newest addition, Veranda Market and Bistro, offers lighter fare, including salads, sandwiches, pizza, selections from the grill, rotisserie chicken and fresh food from the

Courtesy of The Infinity Restaurant at Oyster Bay Beach Resort

OYSTER POND

Courtesy of Veranda Market and Bistro at Oyster Bay Beach Resort

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DID YOU KNOW? YOU’LL FIND SEVERAL RESTAURANTS ON THE WATER SERVING FRESH SEAFOOD AND OTHER DELICIOUS OPTIONS. market. Grab a seat and enjoy your favorites at this irresistible bistro and outdoor bar, which also features incredible views of the ocean.

Big Fish Seafood Grill & Hurricane Bar is all about seafood. Its Asian/ Caribbean–inspired menu focuses on fresh daily catches and inventive dishes that challenge your mind and palate.

Take a seat and give your taste buds a treat in the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.

Veranda Market and Bistro at Oyster Bay Beach Resort

A New Market For Life’s Little Luxuries Now Open at Oyster Bay Beach Resort

Introducing the Veranda, an irresistible new dining option, and market with an outdoor bar offering incredible views of the water and dramatic sunsets.

Serving lighter fare, beer, wine, and spirits from our ocean-front deck on Dawn Beach, the Veranda welcomes you.

Emerald Merit Road #10 721.543.6040

WWW.VISITSTMAARTEN.COM

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FOOD, SPIRITS AND NIGHTLIFE DELICIOUS DELIGHTS

Dutch Blonde Experiences Dutch Blonde was born in early 2019 when St. Maarten’s Caribbean Brewing Company started with the production of local St. Maarten beer. The company has continued to pride itself on its consistency, palatability and variety. Their beers are made fresh with the finest malts, hops and natural ingredients; they’re also organic, unfiltered, unpasteurized and don’t contain any corn syrup or preservatives. They offer a unique brewery tour that gets you up close and personal with the entire beer-making process. In the taproom, you can sample the various flavors. Take a video and make all your friends jealous by drinking straight out of the fermentation tank!

As one of the most popular beers they brew, Dutch Blonde received the 2021 London Beer Competition Silver Medal. The jury described it as, “Fruity and spicy with honey, orange and clove flavors … Overall very complex and refreshing.”

Proudly named after this “lady,” Dutch Blonde Beach Bar, located on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg, is the newest

VISIT ST. MAARTEN / ST. MARTIN DINING & ACTIVITIES GUIDE 2022

hot spot, offering a great variety of entertainment and true goodies. You can have a great time enjoying the best beers, cocktails, wines and creative mixes like their Naughty Blonde. Many gather on Friday evenings for karaoke or come to play (giant) Jenga. Once a week you can take part in a wine tasting paired with Dutch cheeses and snacks. And every day of the week, you can eat your heart out enjoying their special Dutch pancakes and poffertjes, among other delicious dishes and snacks.

At the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar, you will find the Caribbean’s premier escape rooms. Experience this exciting real-life adventure game in one of four settings.

Discover clues, solve puzzles and complete tasks in order to accomplish your goal and escape the room.

For more information and to make reservations, visit www.dutchblondeexperiences.com or call +1 721-543-3314.

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/ ALITA SINGH

IT’S PARTY TIME!

J. Kevin Foltz

St. Maarten/ St. Martin boasts an exciting nightlife scene with something for everyone.

S

t. Maarten/St. Martin’s nightlife is just what is needed to vanquish stress and workaday worries. What better way to free your mind and body than with a fun and safe night out?

Treating yourself to the island’s buzzing after-hours scene should definitely be part of your plans to thoroughly enjoy your vacation in paradise.

In Philipsburg, a good place to start your evening is at AMAsterdam on Front Street. This location draws the after-work crowd for drinks, Dutch and other nibbles and, of course, music.

The Red Piano

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FOOD, SPIRITS AND NIGHTLIFE DELICIOUS DELIGHTS

For a unique experience on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg, visit Dutch Blonde Beach Bar. Here you’ll enjoy award-winning beer and creative cocktails, karaoke on Friday nights, exciting escape rooms and much more.

The Rusty Parrot, on the way to Pointe Blanche, boasts an Instagram-worthy sundown view of Philipsburg across Great Bay as you sip a flute of sparkling wine or a handcrafted cocktail. A DJ is often on hand to rev up the party on the deck of this “pirate” ship.

The Red Piano in Pelican Key is the spot for live-music lovers. Chart-topping hits and classics pour from the piano every night. Ask the pianist for a favorite tune or join the “congregation” on Monday nights for the soul-touching music of Church on Mondays, a live band that gets everyone up and dancing. Grab a drink, dance the night away and make new friends over a game of pool.

The famed Topper’s Restaurant & Bar is the place to make your own music. The popular eatery is now in a new spot — the former Carousel location on Welfare Road. It remains a favorite spot for singers of all ranges — those who deserve a record deal and others who should keep the notes confined to their showers. No

matter where you fall on the scale, this is still the spot for fun!

You always have a friend at 3 Amigos in Maho. Either you bring one, two or more, or make a whole lot of new ones at this spot for music, food and adventures. 3 Amigos is a place to mingle and be seen as you survey the scene.

When the urge to woo Lady Luck takes hold, just across the street is one of the luckiest spots on the island: Casino Royale of Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa. The casino has over 21,000 square feet of gaming and entertainment options — the largest on the island.

In addition to alfresco restaurants, there are highly rated restaurants as well as outdoor bars and lounges where you can grab a few cocktails after dinner and have a great time at Maho Village. Also check out the casino theater for an energetic stage show.

Soggy Dollar Bar in Simpson Bay started out as a hot spot for yacht crew members.

Now, it’s a popular outdoor party destination.

Friday nights are epic, as are the specialty parties that call to the daring and curious.

The DJs spin chart toppers and classic dance favorites to keep the party going into the next morning.

VISIT ST. MAARTEN / ST. MARTIN DINING & ACTIVITIES GUIDE 2022

Still want more? Remember, the island “Happy Hour” often lasts longer than 60 minutes. The usual time for the drinks to pour at special rates is around 4 p.m. Most restaurants and bars add their own twist to Happy Hour by coupling drinks with tapas and entertainment.

To scope out the best parties and happenings, do what the locals do: grab a copy of The Daily Herald, the island’s only newspaper in English. On Thursdays, flip to the Out n’ About section. This weekly insert outlines the island’s major nightlife happenings.

The island prides itself on safe partying.

Locations where larger groups of people can gather to enjoy music and more require patrons to show proof of vaccination (a vaccination card or QR code) or a negative COVID-19 test no older than 48 hours. Due to the fluid nature of the pandemic, regulations are subject to change; so check with official island information websites, your concierge or any of the up-to-date Facebook groups to keep the party going.

Ready to party? The party capital of the Caribbean is ready for you!

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ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS ADVENTURES ON LAND

GROUND YOURSELF BY Tri-Sport

VISIT ST. MAARTEN / ST. MARTIN DINING & ACTIVITIES GUIDE 2022

/ JEFFREY LAIGN

J. Kevin Foltz

There’s much more to this tropical paradise than splendid shores, so make time to explore the exciting land-based adventures as well.

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ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS ADVENTURES ON LAND

Kayak, Snorkel and Lagoon Tours from $49 Bicycle Tours starting at $49 Add an Electric Bike for an additional $10 Touring and Racing Bicycle Rentals from $20 Stand Up Paddle Board and Kayak Rentals from $15 Hiking Tours from $39

Get your team together to compete in St. Maarten’s very own amazing race.

“Just like on T.V.”

SIGN-UP TODAY!

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Tri-Sport

Adventure Race BY

/ ALITA SINGH

St. Maarten/ St. Martin has its own version of TV’s challenging competition.

Ever wonder what it might be like to take on the challenges of globetrotting contestants vying to reach the finish line on TV’s The Amazing Race? Sign up for Adventure Race St. Maarten, created and hosted by adventure tour operator Tri-Sport. You won’t travel the world, but you will get to know the island in a way that many visitors never do.

This adventure island race takes you and your team through Philipsburg, the Dutch-side capital town. The race brings together action, adventure and sightseeing in a fast-paced, fun environment. Armed with a map, you’ll solve clues that lead your team to its next destination or direct you to perform a task, or complete a challenge for bonus points.

It’s the perfect activity for the entire family, especially the kids.

The nature of each optional challenge is different. Some are mental and some are physical. They range from building a sandcastle and sampling a traditional food to jumping in the ocean. How’s that for adventure?

The tour takes about two and a half hours and consists of walking some four kilometers/2.5 miles of walking around town. There is no age or fitness restriction, but one member of your team should be prepared to go for a short swim in the ocean.

Take the race at your own speed — fast paced or leisurely. The winner isn’t always the first to cross the finish line. The final score is based on race time and points earned for challenges. The winning team is announced in an awards ceremony, and each team member takes home a prize.

Courtesy of Adventure Race St. Maarten

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ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS ADVENTURES ON LAND

Rainforest Adventures St. Maarten

/ VANESSA MOLINA SANTAMARIA

Ultimate Adventure Don’t miss Rainforest Adventures St. Maarten, the hottest attraction in the Caribbean.

Located on the historic Emilio Wilson Estate, Rainforest Adventures is an eco-adventure park that offers visitors a unique and memorable experience inspired by the local island culture and its breathtaking natural surroundings.

Your adventure starts at the Emilio Wilson Museum, a restored plantation house that dates back to the 1700s. Visitors will see what it was like to live on a plantation and learn all about Trace Wilson, who was born into slavery in 1818, and her direct descendant, Emilio Wilson.

The main attraction at Rockland Estate is, of course, The Flying Dutchman, the world’s steepest

VISIT ST. MAARTEN / ST. MARTIN DINING & ACTIVITIES GUIDE 2022

zip line. Harnessed in a chair, guests are launched down the mountain dropping 1,050 feet in elevation over a 2,800-foot span. It’s the thrill of a lifetime! So amazing, in fact, that The Flying Dutchman received the prestigious 2018 Seatrade Cruise Award for “Innovative Shorex of the Year.” This award recognizes companies or individuals that have introduced the most innovative shore excursion during the past year.

For the most stunning island views, head to the top of Sentry Hill, one of St. Maarten’s highest points at 1,125 feet. Walkways and platforms on the mountaintop provide 360-degree views. Be sure to bring your camera or smartphone to the top so you can snap an Instagram-worthy selfie. Look around and see if you can spot our friendly neighbors: Saba, St. Barths, Statia and Anguilla.

Another popular experience is the Sentry Hill Zip Line, which combines mild hiking with a zip line. This is a more traditional zip line with a 1,640-foot, four-span line that traverses the mountain ridge. The Schooner Ride is also beloved by visitors who enjoy the thrill of speeding down the mountain in large inner tubes on a specially designed 657-foot track.

Before you leave, check out Rockland Estate’s Gift Shop, where you’ll find unique local treasures and beautiful handcrafted jewelry.

DID YOU KNOW? FOR THE MOST STUNNING ISLAND VIEWS, HEAD TO THE TOP OF SENTRY HILL, ONE OF ST. MAARTEN’S HIGHEST POINTS AT 1,125 FEET. RTGH Photography

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ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS ADVENTURES ON LAND

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/ ALITA SINGH

The Rusty Parrot

Ahoy, Matey!

BY

/ ALITA SINGH

Come join the “pirates” on The Rusty Parrot.

Grab an eye patch and head for The Rusty Parrot, a “scuttled” ship in Philipsburg like those once used by marauding pirates. Now it’s the newest hot spot in St. Maarten/St. Martin, a favorite of history lovers and partiers alike.

The story begins with pirate enthusiast Raphael Dorra, the creative mind behind the new attraction. Dorra describes The

Rusty Parrot as an “immersive experience” designed to show what life was like for infamous Caribbean pirates like Jack Rackham, known to history as Calico Jack. Visitors enter the bowels of the “ship” to learn more about Rackham through special effects and many surprises.

Dorra, who grew up in Tahiti, says there are many stories surrounding pirates; but most are distorted, based on legends, not facts. When the opportunity presented itself for a unique adventure, Dorra was ready to hoist the Jolly Roger, the internationally known symbol of pirates created by Rackham.

The Rusty Parrot takes visitors through the life of Rackham based on researched materials, artifacts, some plotline twists and a few turns.

“The idea is to present history in a fun way,” says Dorra. “This is a total experience for family, friends, groups, anyone who wants to experience something exciting and different.”

Tours are offered in five languages — English, Dutch, French, German and Spanish — and the “crew” dresses in full pirate garb to lend authenticity to the experience.

Continue your pirate adventure with gear from the gift shop. Then head up to the deck for a view of Philipsburg and Great Bay. Topside, enjoy drinks and tasty tapas at the bar and lounge as you take in the island’s balmy weather. Music is also on the menu.

“Visit us at The Rusty Parrot,” Dorra says. “It’s an adventure like no other.”

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Tel +1 (721) 542-4407 +1 (721) 587-5291 www.solidatvtour.com

J. Kevin Foltz

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Amuseum Naturalis BY

/ VANESSA MOLINA SANTAMARIA

J. Kevin Foltz

A museum to help tell the story of St. Martin.

Now open for self-guided tours, the free Amuseum Naturalis on the French side maintains a bush tea garden showcasing the island’s medicinal plants. Located at the historic Old House in French Quarter, this unique museum showcases the nature and heritage of St. Martin.

In addition to the bush tea garden, you can enjoy the open-air Amuseum exhibit hall, agriculture displays, poetry exhibits and more. Find out what future initiatives are planned or become a volunteer during your stay. Learn more at www.amuseumnaturalis.com. You can also donate to the nonprofit museum by visiting www.globalgiving.org/projects/amuseum-naturalis.

Amuseum Naturalis

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ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS ADVENTURES ON LAND

ALL SCREAM FOR GELATO!

Cool down a bit at Gelateria Milano on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg. The gelatos are bursting with flavors that make for fun combos or are great on their own. What makes this location the place to be is its super-cool playground right on Great Bay Beach. It’s a destination unto itself for little and big kids.

FEATHERED FRIENDS

Parotte Ville on Bishop Hill Road is for the birds.

The walk-in park is home to quite a few exotic birds, including sun parakeets, ring-necked parakeets, black-headed caiques and more. The park also has a heritage (family) museum featuring antique items and a medicinal garden.

PEDAL PUSHERS

It’s always a family affair in St. Maarten/ St. Martin.

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/ ALITA SINGH

T

here is no end to the fun and adventures you’ll discover while on vacation in St. Maarten/St. Martin. Everyone in the family — from tiny ones to grandparents and everyone in between — can find something to enjoy.

Most resorts offer activities to keep children busy on property, but it’s well worth the effort to head out with your brood and explore. Here are some options to add to your family’s must-do list.

The Rusty Parrot

BE A PIRATE

Enter the world of a real pirate. At The Rusty Parrot in Philipsburg learn about the life and times of Jack Rackham, one of the most fearsome pirates to roam the Caribbean Sea. This is one swashbuckling adventure that will sweep everyone off their feet. At the end, go topside to relive the day.

FLY HIGH

At Rainforest Adventures St. Maarten, you can take flight safely by braving the steepest zip line in the world: The Flying Dutchman. Not such a big adventurer? You can opt for the Sky Explorer chairlift to the highest point on the Dutch side, Sentry Hill, for an eagle’s-eye view of the island. Tuck into The Schooner, a fast tube ride, and zoom down the hillside where you can enjoy another adrenaline boost. Don’t forget to check out the on-site museum.

TAKE ON THE JUNGLE

Loterie Farm’s Jungle Kids Adventure Park is a world of its own for young ones. There’s a designated play area with challenging, fun activities, a kids’ pool and a good place for moms and dads to keep an eye on safety. You can take to the treetops on the Fly Zone for a heady rush or hike up to the highest point on the island — Pic Paradis (Paradise Peak). Your reward will be stunning views of Marigot and Anguilla.

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HORSING AROUND

Saddle up at Seaside Nature Park and explore the trails for Instagram-worthy shots of spectacular scenery. Then take a swim with your trusty steed in the Caribbean Sea. The 30-acre park also has kayaks, a playground and a petting zoo in Cay Bay.

UNDER THE SEA

Sign up for a snorkeling tour with Aqua Mania’s Sand Dollar Adventure. A good place to start is Creole Rock, an unusual rock formation with a reef extending toward shore. Calm, shallow waters make for excellent snorkeling. Greet tropical reef fish as they dart in and out of their hiding places, and be on the lookout for barracuda, puffer fish and the rare frogfish.

BEACH BABY

A multitude of beaches dot the coastline of the island. One favorite for kids is Le Galion Beach or “Baby Beach.” The beach gets its nickname from calm waters made for wading. Island beaches are perfect for a family picnic. Stock up on your musthave beach snacks, blankets and beach towels. Don’t forget the sunscreen.

TAKE A STROLL

Evenings are a lovely time to stroll along the Boardwalk in Philipsburg or the Marigot waterfront.

Join the locals in saying goodbye to the sun, and plan your next adventure as the two towns take on their nighttime personalities.

J. Kevin Foltz

FUN FOR ALL

Get sporty with a bike from Tri-Sport for a unique perspective on The Friendly Island. Biking is great for sightseeing and exploring. What’s more, you can bond as a family team in the Adventure Race. It’s a challenge and lots of fun.

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BY

/ ALITA SINGH

Chasing Murals J. Kevin Foltz (3)

Discover the Dutch side on an art walk like no other.

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/ ALITA SINGH

Looking for a novel way to spend a day and learn more about the island you’re visiting? Take a selfguided walking tour of Philipsburg and see how many colorful murals you can spot.

ColorMeSXM, a project by St. Maarten’s Be The Change Foundation, brings together artists and the naked fronts and sides of buildings. On these blank canvases, artists selected for the first phase of the project bring their visions to life. The murals tell stories of the past, manifest fanciful imaginings and pay homage to nature and art itself.

The project was conceived to encourage residents and visitors to explore Philipsburg in a different way. Project directors scouted prime locations for murals. Some are in plain sight, while others are hidden and must be discovered.

The fun and challenge are not only in seeing the murals but in finding them.

Zillah Duzon-Hazel’s Caribbean Through My Eyes and Annemiek van Kerkhof-Posthuma’s Freedom Run are two of the murals you can visit during your tour.

Caribbean Through My Eyes is on Front Street across from Oranje School. The mural took the artist and fashion designer four weeks of working mostly nights with the help of volunteers.

The concept and inspiration behind the piece come from the artist’s life and her other creative projects. “I create these bold colorful prints for my brand Jolie Duzon,” she says. “I am inspired by nature: the beautiful colors and lifestyle of the Caribbean. The prints on the mural are three out of over 100 prints that I have created for clothing designs and hand-painted clutches.”

Freedom Run by van Kerkhof-Posthuma is on St. Jansteeg, the first alley on your left, past the Methodist Church on Front Street. The piece took 13 days to complete and incorporates a piece of historic rock wall.

Van Kerkhof-Posthuma’s mural is inspired by history. “Twice, I have been a participant in the reenactment of the Freedom Run from Diamond Estate to Bellevue, which made a great impression on me,” she says.

In her mural, she imagines the many emotions the slaves felt as they ran from their captors and finally were free. “I hope to have captured some of these emotions,” she says.

Ready to discover more? You can simply start exploring or download the Art Walk Challenge Map from www.bethechangesxm.com/colormesxm.

Either way, the murals will spark your imagination and, perhaps, inspire your own creativity.

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ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS ON THE WATER

WAVES OF FUN If you’ve ever dreamed of trying your hand at a water sport, this is the place to do it.

/ JEFFREY LAIGN

Aqua Mania Adventures

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RTGH Photography

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ST. MAARTEN | ST. MARTIN ANGUILL A | ST. BARTHS Private Charters • Speed Boat and Catamaran Excursions Fishing Charters • Watersports Excursions Opal Bldg., Red Plum Tree Drive, Cole Bay Email: info@stmaarten-boatcharters.com Phone Number: +1 721-520-2055, US: +1 954-304-4991 Website: www.stmaarten-boatcharters.com

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ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS ON THE WATER

SUPERB SNORKELING Sea life abounds at several sites around the island.

/ DEBBY LIND-STEYN

T

he crystal-clear waters surrounding St. Maarten/St. Martin are home to a variety of sea life, including turtles, rays, tropical fish and colorful corals. Let’s take a look at some of the top snorkeling spots to visit.

Starting on the south end of the island, off beautiful Little Bay Peninsula, an unusual collection of artificial reefs were created by sinking a helicopter and a large airplane. Corals have formed and reef fish now populate the site snorkelers can enjoy.

Spot lionfish, barracuda and the everinquisitive yellowtail snapper.

Moving up to Simpson Bay, the rocky reef break is home to many colorful reef fish, eels and barracuda. Just off the beach

by Simpson Bay Resort, the calm, protected bay waters make for enjoyable snorkeling.

Next stop: Baie Rouge. The famous “hole in the wall” is a swim-through, and the soft corals have regrown beautifully in this area.

As you enter the water from Baie Rouge Beach, head right around the rocky outcrop.

Enjoy the snorkeling and an exhilarating swim through the gap.

While not specifically a snorkeling area, La Samanna Bay at Long Beach has a white-sand bottom that highlights the gorgeous turquoise water for which the Caribbean is so famous. Here we often see stingrays nestled in the sand and inquisitive Bermuda chubs. The occasional barracuda slowly swims by and hangs out in the shade of a boat.

Creole Rock on the north side of St. Maarten is your first entry to the Reserve Naturelle. The patient dedication of the Reserve Team has seen the restoration of corals and sea life around Creole Rock, Pinel Island, Tintamarre Island and Green Cay. Creole Rock serves as a nursery, so many varieties of reef fish can be seen in their juvenile stages. Creole Rock is shaped like the head of an Indian chief and is quite a large area to snorkel and scuba dive. This site and Tintamarre are only accessible by boat.

If you are fortunate enough to charter a boat, the snorkel sites around Tintamarre

VISIT ST. MAARTEN / ST. MARTIN DINING & ACTIVITIES GUIDE 2022

and Pinel are great for exploring. The corals are well formed, and turtles are plentiful.

Ensure your boat trip abides by the Reserve rules to protect the sea life by picking up moorings instead of anchoring.

For a fun and safe snorkel experience, bring along reef-safe sunscreen and swim shirts. Keep your fins off the bottom and don’t take or touch sea life. Mask and snorkel rentals are common at many beaches.

You also may rent gear from your hotel or may choose to buy your own.

Take a few minutes to make sure your gear is working and fits properly, and ask your guide where to go and what you will see.

Then, relax and enjoy floating in turquoise-blue waters. There are such great wonders to see under the water. Place your face in the water and see what is hanging around.

Exciting new developments on island are an underwater snorkel museum with statues and the reopening of Reef-It Snorkel Park in Great Bay.

Courtesy of Aqua Mania Adventures (2)

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